zou2 nin4早年
Jyutpingzou2 nin4
Yalejóu nìhn
Definition
One's early years; the earlier period of a person's life.
neutraltimepeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to a period in the past that is relatively early in a person's life or the history of an organization. It carries a slightly formal or narrative tone, often used when recounting a biography or the origins of something. Unlike the more casual use of 細個, this term emphasizes a distinct phase of development rather than just childhood.
Examples
He lived abroad in his early years.
Did you live in this area in your early years?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to the early part of a single day, such as early morning; for that, use 朝早 or 早晨 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
